REFLECTION ON THE PAST TO PREPARE FOR THE FUTURE

Author: Fred M. Eckel, RPh, MS, Pharmacy Times Editor-in-Chief

As a year comes to an end, we have the opportunity to
evaluate accomplishments, determine what the future may
hold, and decide on any course correction needed. Will
pharmacy practice undergo more change in 2005 than we
experienced in 2004? Will pharmacists be expected to perform
different services in 2005? Will you need to develop
new skills to be able to provide services that Medicare Part
D will expect from pharmacists? With Republicans in control
of the White House and Congress, will 2005 bring legislative
changes that will benefit or perhaps hurt the pharmacy
profession? How are you going to decide your
answers to these questions? If you want to influence how
these questions will be answered, how will you do it? My
point is that, unless we plan for changes and work at making
them happen, we may be caught off guard and be disappointed
by what does happen.

I believe that we determine the future by the decisions
we make today. The profession does not take care of itself.
Pharmacists have to take care of the profession. What steps
are you going to take in 2005? As 2004 comes to an end, it
is a great time to make those decisions.

This season for many is a time to give to others, spend
time with those we care about, and enjoy the holiday season.
Pharmacy Times' wish for you is that hope will always
mean more than memories. You can ensure that this wish
will come true as you work to make your profession better
in 2005.

Thank you for the positive comments you have shared
with us about our publication. We will strive to improve it by
listening to your suggestions. We will continue to provide
you with useful information resources to help you take better
care of your patients in 2005. May you have a great 2005!